Directors
Asmita Lawrence
“I manage the Programs and Projects. I founded ‘Culture Chats’ to combine my love of arts and literature with my interest in multiculturalism. My professional experience is in strategic planning, research and program management.”
Craita Isbasescu
“I work as a LINC teacher and I have extensive experience supporting newcomers. I am keenly interested in intercultural arts and I have been supporting the work of Culture Chats for many years.”
Shokoofeh Mostofi
“I have many years of experience with non profits serving as treasurer and also of chairing non profit associations. I would like to use technical and financial experience to help Culture Chats to offer well organized and professional programs.”
L. Francois
“I have many years of experience with non profits serving as treasurer and also of chairing non profit associations. I would like to use technical and financial experience to help Culture Chats to offer well organized and professional programs.”
Wen-Chi Liu
“My name is Wen-Chi. I am from Taiwan and used to work in the airline industry. Now I often find myself enjoying hiking with my dog and family in Canada. I believe that I can bring some positive energy to the team to encourage and help others towards their goal. I am excited for this upcoming year and to meet everyone.”
Mavis Gevido (Former Director Jan 2021- July 2022)
Fiona Stevenson (Former Director 2017-2019)
Oana Capota (Former Director – 2020)
Advisory Committee
Maria de Lourdes Vargas Olivera – Art & Craft
Maria is a highly creative person who excels in arts and particularly children’s crafts as a hobby. She speaks English and Spanish. She lives in Burnaby with her two beautiful daughters. She is originally from Mexico where she worked as a vet.
Su Shruthi – Outreach support
Su Shruthi is a facilitator/ researcher/ frontend web-developer by profession.She enjoys volunteering for social causes, arts, videography, vlog-ing, She is passionate about learning about different cultures and languages.
Touran Nazargahi – Writing Workshops Support
Touran Nazargahi completed her BA in English and MA in Library & Information Science followed by a 7 year long successful career as an English teacher in private institutions. She is a highly compassionate and resilient woman, she loves to support newcomer women. She currently works at the Burnaby Public Library
Asmita Lawrence – ED
